A family divorce mediator serves as a professional facilitator, expertly navigating couples through the complexities of separation with empathy. This role is pivotal in transforming a potentially adversarial process into a collaborative journey towards resolution. By employing exceptional listening skills, fostering clear communication, and promoting a constructive dialogue, the mediator ensures that both parties are heard and respected. Their objective guidance helps individuals navigate the emotional landscape of divorce, encouraging decisions that are equitable and sustainable. Agreement can be reached with a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. This approach not only humanizes the divorce process but also reinforces the capacity for positive change and growth amidst life’s challenges.
Leyla Balakhane, a professional divorce and family mediator, exemplifies excellence and compassion in the field of conflict resolution. With her extensive background as a facilitator, coach, and trainer, she has devoted her career to promoting fairness and understanding in family matters. With a steadfast commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a happy, safe, and loving home, Leyla embodies the ideals of compassion and dedication. She stands as a shining example of what it means to truly make a difference in society
As a member of the Board of Directors of the Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA), Leyla has the opportunity to influence the direction of the field and as the chair of membership with SCMA, she plays a crucial role in shaping the future of mediation. Her dedication and service have been recognized with the prestigious 2023 President’s Award from the Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA), highlighting her significant influence and commitment. Leyla’s expertise and achievements have earned her recognition as a distinguished member of the Los Angeles County Bar Association Arbitration Panel (LACBA), the SCMA, and a Certified Advanced Practitioner of the Academy of Professional Family Mediators (APFM). She also sparks inspiration in her colleagues as the head of the monthly SCMA’s Professional Development Group for Family Law Mediators. With her extensive knowledge and expertise, she generously shares her wisdom and guidance with fellow professionals, elevating their abilities and empowering them to reach new heights. And through her connections, she brings in the most sought-after speakers to impart their knowledge and inspire growth in the field. Leyla plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of family mediation, both locally and globally. As a key member of the Board of Directors for the Academy of Professional Family Mediators, she brings her extensive knowledge and experience to the forefront, tirelessly working to refine and elevate family mediation practices. Her influence, however, extends far beyond the local level.
In her global capacity, Leyla serves on the Academy of Professional Family Mediators Committee, a crucial unit that bridges State, National, and International Mediation Associations. This role places her at the heart of international efforts, where she collaborates with top mediation leaders from around the world. Her contributions are vital in promoting their initiatives, fostering a shared vision, and significantly advancing the practice of mediation on a global scale.
Leyla’s work is more than just a commitment to her profession; it’s a vital link that connects diverse cultures and mediation practices. Her efforts are central to the elevation of the field of mediation, not just in her immediate community but across the world. Through her visionary leadership and dedicated service, Leyla is not only enhancing the present landscape of family mediation but also laying the groundwork for its future, marking her as a true change-maker in the field.
With a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and economic awareness, Leyla’s approach to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is highly effective, helping families find solutions that work for them. At Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court, Leyla mentors other mediators, guiding them in resolving complex cases that impact the lives of children. Her clients leave with a sense of empowerment, as Leyla works with each family to explore options that suit their unique needs, allowing them to shape their future and participate fully in the decision-making process.
Leyla’s mediation skills are rooted in empathy and understanding, allowing her to get to the heart of each conflict and alleviate the stress and tension that often accompany separations. Her cooperative approach encourages families to work on rebuilding relationships, promoting positive communication, and making decisions that are in the best interests of their children.
In addition to divorce, Leyla offers mediation services for a range of life issues, including adoption, interpersonal relations, family businesses, guardianship, conservatorship and eldercare, pre-marital mediation, post-marital mediation, dissolution of non-marital relationships, teen issues, parent coordination, blended family mediation, and cohabitation agreements. Leyla’s work is an expression of her deep-seated commitment to making a difference in the world and improving the lives of others.
Mediation Training & EducationUSC Law School – 40 hour of Children & Dependency Mediation·Pepperdine School of Law – Advanced Mediation Training in Family Law Dispute ResolutionSeeds Community Resolution Center – 40-hour Mediator CertificationSanta Clara County Superior Court – 40-hour Mediation TrainingLos Angeles County Bar Association – Attorney-Client Fee Dispute Arbitration TrainingMarina Collaborative Divorce Group – Mediation Training on Collaborative DivorceSanta Clara County Superior Court – Advanced Mediation Skills PracticumHigh Conflict Institute – Training on how to manage disputes involving high conflict personalities and personality disorders in mediationBR
Social/Volunteer Organizations
Leyla serves as a mentor for the mediators at Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court where she trains mediators and resolves Juvenile dependency disputes such as shared parental responsibility, termination of parental rights, and adoption disputes
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